Vidas pequeñas (2010) Reviews

• Excellent Acting

  bpeb2018-08-14

  After the 2008 global recession, director Enrique Gabriel (remember 1992 Krapatchouck and 1008 Hitting Bottom), returns to examine the consequences of unemployment in a closely observed and quieter reflective mode which shows and does not tell. The film focuses on the insignificant lives, vidas pequeñas of the title, which do matter, as they attempt with different coping mechanism, whether denial, resignation, anger, delusion, despair, perseverance, pride, optimism, alcohol, memories, etc, to deal with their personal circumstances and survive in spite of their different backgrounds and events on which they have little control. The focus is on relationships as the characters are joined by Bárbara (Ana Fernández), who learns the value of caring and solidarity when she accepts Andres's invitation (Roberto Enriquez) to the caravan site on the outskirts of Madrid..